The 1998 Toyota Corolla represents the eighth generation (E110 chassis) of this globally renowned compact car, produced from 1998 to 2002 in North America. Offered primarily as a 4-door sedan, it continued the Corolla's legacy of reliability and economy. Key trims included the entry-level CE, the value-oriented VE, and the more equipped LE. With new prices ranging from approximately $13,000 to $17,000, its unwavering dependability and exceptional fuel efficiency made it a perennial favorite among practical buyers.
The Good
The 1998 Toyota Corolla boasts legendary reliability and outstanding fuel efficiency, offering immense practical value. Its conservative design remains inoffensive, while basic comfort is adequate for daily commutes. Emotionally, it provides peace of mind through its "bulletproof" dependability and minimal ownership costs, making it a smart, enduring choice for any buyer prioritizing trouble-free transport.
The Bad
Common weaknesses for the 1998 Toyota Corolla include its generally uninspired performance and plain design, which may not excite all drivers. Watch out for age-related issues such as rust, especially in colder climates, and potential for minor oil leaks (like from the valve cover gasket) and worn suspension components. The interior features are basic, lacking modern amenities.
1998 Toyota Corolla: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1998 Toyota Corolla was primarily available with a single engine option for the North American market: a 1.8-liter 1ZZ-FE DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine. This engine was known for its robust design and fuel efficiency.
- Horsepower: This 1.8L engine produced approximately 120 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 122 lb-ft of torque at 4400 rpm. It was sufficient for daily driving and highway cruising, though not particularly powerful.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy was a strong suit for the 1998 Corolla. EPA estimates for the automatic transmission typically ranged around 28 MPG city / 34 MPG highway, while manual transmission models often achieved slightly better, around 30 MPG city / 38 MPG highway. These figures were excellent for its time.
- 0-60 Times: Acceleration from 0-60 mph was modest, usually in the range of 9.0 to 10.0 seconds, depending on the transmission (manual generally quicker) and specific conditions. It was adequate for merging and overtaking but not spirited.
- Towing Capacity: The 1998 Toyota Corolla was not designed or officially rated for significant towing. While some owners might have used it for very light loads, the general recommendation is against towing with this vehicle, or at most, limiting it to under 1,000 pounds for extremely light trailers, if at all.
- Trim-Level Features:
- CE (Classic Edition): This was the base model. Features were quite spartan, typically including 14-inch steel wheels, vinyl/cloth upholstery, AM/FM radio, manual windows, and manual door locks. Air conditioning was often an optional extra, as were power steering and a cassette player.
- VE (Value Edition): Often a mid-range offering, the VE added a few more standard features over the CE, which could include air conditioning, a slightly upgraded stereo, or power steering, aiming to provide more value without a significant price jump.
- LE (Luxury Edition): The top-tier trim offered the most comfort and convenience features. Standard equipment typically included power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, air conditioning, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel, a tachometer, and an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player (and sometimes an optional CD player). Options like anti-lock brakes (ABS) and alloy wheels were also available on the LE.
1998 Toyota Corolla Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1998 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | Corolla |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | CAMBRIDGE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1ZZ-FE |
| Engine Size | 1.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 1998 Toyota Corolla Have?
The 1998 Toyota Corolla is renowned for its reliability, but like any vehicle of its age, it does have some frequently reported problems and long-term concerns. One common issue owners encounter is minor oil leaks, most notably from the valve cover gasket. While not severe, these can lead to oil consumption if not addressed. Another age-related problem is the failure of the catalytic converter, which can trigger the "check engine" light and affect emissions, often accompanied by oxygen (O2) sensor failures that are linked to the converter's health or general wear.
Rust is a significant long-term concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters where road salt is used. Rust can affect body panels, subframes, and suspension components, compromising structural integrity over time. Owners also report wear and tear on front suspension components, such as struts, control arm bushings, and sway bar links, leading to clunking noises or a less stable ride.
The air conditioning system can be a point of failure, with compressor issues or refrigerant leaks becoming more common as the vehicle ages. Electrical gremlins are usually minor, often related to dashboard lights or accessory functions rather than critical systems.
Regarding recalls for the 1998 model year, major safety recalls across all vehicles from this era often pertained to Takata airbag inflators. While specific details would require a VIN search on the NHTSA website, it's crucial to check for any outstanding recalls. Beyond specific recalls, the long-term reliability of the Corolla's engine and transmission is generally excellent, often reaching 200,000+ miles with proper maintenance. However, auxiliary components like alternators, starters, and fuel pumps will eventually fail due to age and mileage, requiring replacement. Overall, while some maintenance is inevitable, the 1998 Corolla avoids systemic, catastrophic failures common in less reliable vehicles.
Rust is a significant long-term concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters where road salt is used. Rust can affect body panels, subframes, and suspension components, compromising structural integrity over time. Owners also report wear and tear on front suspension components, such as struts, control arm bushings, and sway bar links, leading to clunking noises or a less stable ride.
The air conditioning system can be a point of failure, with compressor issues or refrigerant leaks becoming more common as the vehicle ages. Electrical gremlins are usually minor, often related to dashboard lights or accessory functions rather than critical systems.
Regarding recalls for the 1998 model year, major safety recalls across all vehicles from this era often pertained to Takata airbag inflators. While specific details would require a VIN search on the NHTSA website, it's crucial to check for any outstanding recalls. Beyond specific recalls, the long-term reliability of the Corolla's engine and transmission is generally excellent, often reaching 200,000+ miles with proper maintenance. However, auxiliary components like alternators, starters, and fuel pumps will eventually fail due to age and mileage, requiring replacement. Overall, while some maintenance is inevitable, the 1998 Corolla avoids systemic, catastrophic failures common in less reliable vehicles.
How long will the 1998 Toyota Corolla last?
The 1998 Toyota Corolla is a testament to long-term durability, often exceeding 200,000 to 300,000 miles with diligent maintenance. Many owners report their vehicles serving reliably for 15 to 20 years or more. This exceptional longevity is largely due to its robust 1ZZ-FE engine and dependable automatic or manual transmissions. Over time, the primary weaknesses emerge from age-related wear, rather than inherent design flaws.
Common long-term issues include the degradation of rubber components such (hoses, belts, suspension bushings), which lead to leaks or a less refined ride. Rust can become prevalent, especially in areas exposed to road salt, affecting body panels and structural components. While the core mechanicals remain solid, auxiliary parts like the AC compressor, power steering pump, and catalytic converter are prone to failure after two decades of service. Despite these, the Corolla's ability to consistently deliver economical and reliable transportation for extended periods is unparalleled.
Common long-term issues include the degradation of rubber components such (hoses, belts, suspension bushings), which lead to leaks or a less refined ride. Rust can become prevalent, especially in areas exposed to road salt, affecting body panels and structural components. While the core mechanicals remain solid, auxiliary parts like the AC compressor, power steering pump, and catalytic converter are prone to failure after two decades of service. Despite these, the Corolla's ability to consistently deliver economical and reliable transportation for extended periods is unparalleled.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1998 Toyota Corolla, hailing from an era before the digital dashboard, offered a very basic and functional approach to in-car technology and entertainment. Built-in tech was minimal, comprising essential gauges for speed, fuel, and engine temperature, alongside indicator lights. There were no integrated navigation systems, multi-information displays, or USB ports. The climate control was entirely manual, with simple dials and sliders for temperature, fan speed, and vent selection.
For entertainment, the standard offering was typically an AM/FM radio, often paired with a cassette player. Higher trims (LE) or optional packages might have included a CD player, usually a single-disc unit. Sound quality was rudimentary by modern standards, with basic two or four-speaker setups. There were no advanced audio features like equalizer settings or connectivity options beyond the radio.
Driver-assistance features, as understood today, were non-existent. There were no blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, or parking sensors. Drivers relied solely on their own observation and skill.
Regarding safety, the 1998 Corolla included dual front airbags as standard equipment, a significant advancement for compact cars at the time. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were an optional feature, typically found on the higher LE trim, offering improved stopping performance in emergency situations. Seatbelts were three-point for all outboard passengers, and the rear center seat often had a lap belt. Child safety seat anchors (LATCH system) were not standard across all positions or even present in the earliest iterations of this generation, requiring specific checks.
Crash-test ratings for the 1998 Corolla from organizations like the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) generally yielded acceptable results for its time. It typically received 4 or 5 stars in frontal crash tests, reflecting the effectiveness of its dual airbags and basic structural integrity. Side-impact ratings varied, often 3 or 4 stars, as side airbags were not available. While these ratings were good for the late 1990s, they do not compare favorably to the stringent tests and advanced safety features found in modern vehicles.
For entertainment, the standard offering was typically an AM/FM radio, often paired with a cassette player. Higher trims (LE) or optional packages might have included a CD player, usually a single-disc unit. Sound quality was rudimentary by modern standards, with basic two or four-speaker setups. There were no advanced audio features like equalizer settings or connectivity options beyond the radio.
Driver-assistance features, as understood today, were non-existent. There were no blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, or parking sensors. Drivers relied solely on their own observation and skill.
Regarding safety, the 1998 Corolla included dual front airbags as standard equipment, a significant advancement for compact cars at the time. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were an optional feature, typically found on the higher LE trim, offering improved stopping performance in emergency situations. Seatbelts were three-point for all outboard passengers, and the rear center seat often had a lap belt. Child safety seat anchors (LATCH system) were not standard across all positions or even present in the earliest iterations of this generation, requiring specific checks.
Crash-test ratings for the 1998 Corolla from organizations like the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) generally yielded acceptable results for its time. It typically received 4 or 5 stars in frontal crash tests, reflecting the effectiveness of its dual airbags and basic structural integrity. Side-impact ratings varied, often 3 or 4 stars, as side airbags were not available. While these ratings were good for the late 1990s, they do not compare favorably to the stringent tests and advanced safety features found in modern vehicles.
What Colors Options are Available?
We’re working on this section!
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1998 Toyota Corolla Prices and Market Value
When new in 1998, the Toyota Corolla was an affordably priced compact car. A base CE model typically started around $12,900, while the more equipped LE trim could push upwards of $16,500-$17,000, excluding options and destination charges. Fast forward to today, the current used market prices for a 1998 Corolla vary widely, generally ranging from $1,500 to $4,000, depending heavily on condition, mileage, and geographical location. Exceptionally well-preserved, low-mileage examples might fetch slightly more.
Depreciation insights reveal that while the Corolla experienced significant initial depreciation like most new cars, its depreciation curve flattened dramatically over time. Its legendary reliability and low ownership costs ensure consistent demand for well-maintained examples, leading to strong resale value for a vehicle of its age. Factors affecting its current resale value include a clean title, minimal rust, functioning air conditioning, low original mileage, a comprehensive service history, and overall mechanical soundness. The Toyota badge itself acts as a significant value retainer.
Depreciation insights reveal that while the Corolla experienced significant initial depreciation like most new cars, its depreciation curve flattened dramatically over time. Its legendary reliability and low ownership costs ensure consistent demand for well-maintained examples, leading to strong resale value for a vehicle of its age. Factors affecting its current resale value include a clean title, minimal rust, functioning air conditioning, low original mileage, a comprehensive service history, and overall mechanical soundness. The Toyota badge itself acts as a significant value retainer.
1998 Toyota Corolla Cost of Ownership
The 1998 Toyota Corolla is unequivocally one of the most economical vehicles to own in the long term. Insurance costs are typically very low due to its age, modest performance, and high safety ratings for its era. Fuel costs are minimal, thanks to its excellent fuel economy (high 20s to high 30s MPG). Maintenance is generally inexpensive, with widely available and affordable parts, and simple repair procedures that many independent mechanics can perform. While age-related repairs like replacing an AC compressor or catalytic converter can arise, these are infrequent compared to most other vehicles. Overall, the 1998 Corolla offers outstanding value and exceptionally low long-term ownership costs, making it a budget-friendly choice.
1998 Toyota Corolla Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1998 Toyota Corolla Safety Rating
NHTSA
1998 Toyota Corolla Recalls & Defects
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2006-07-17
Recall no.
06e065000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain AJ Motorsport Combination Lamps Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON THE Above Listed Passenger Vehicles. Combination Lamps NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence
Lack OF Amber Side Reflectors IN THE Lamps Will Decrease Lighting Visibility TO Other Drivers and MAY Possibly Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
AJ Motorsport Will Notify Owners and Offer Reimbursement FOR THE Lamps. THE Recall Began ON July 31, 2006. Owners MAY Contact AJ Motorsport AT 626-618-2026.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO AJ Motorsport Aftermarket Lamps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2006-03-23
Recall no.
06e026000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Pro-A Motors Corner Lamps, Turn Signals, and Headlights Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON Certain Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. Some Combination Lamps That ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence
Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash Without Warning.
Remedy
Pro-A Motors Will Notify Owners and Offer TO Repurchase THE Lamps. THE Recall Began ON April 3, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Pro-A Motors AT 323-838-2988.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Pro-A Motors Aftermarket Lamps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2008-08-11
Recall no.
08e050000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
K2 Motor IS Recalling 1,921 Aftermarket Headlamps OF Various Models Sold FOR USE ON THE Above Listed Vehicles. These Headlamps ARE Missing THE Amber Side Reflex Reflector Which Fails TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
Without THE Amber Side Reflex Reflectors, THE Lighting Visibility MAY BE Affected, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
K2 Motor Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund. THE Recall Began ON Decemeber 17, 2008. Owners MAY Contact K2 Motor AT 1-909-839-2992.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY Honda, Ford, or Chrysler Llc. Customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2009-04-07
Recall no.
09e012000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
1998 Toyota Corolla Insurance
Insurance for a 1998 Toyota Corolla is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1998 Toyota Corolla Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1998 Toyota Corolla competed fiercely in the compact sedan segment against formidable rivals such as the Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, and Chevrolet Cavalier. Here's how it stacked up:
Recommended Alternatives:
If a 1998 Corolla isn't available, a 1998 Honda Civic is an excellent alternative, offering similar legendary reliability, good fuel economy, and often a slightly more enjoyable driving experience. A Nissan Sentra from the same era could also be considered for its economy, though its long-term reliability might not quite match the Corolla or Civic.
- Performance: The Corolla's 1.8L engine offered adequate but not exciting performance. It was generally on par with the Escort and Cavalier in terms of acceleration and handling, but often felt less sporty than the Honda Civic, which typically offered slightly more engaging driving dynamics and sometimes higher horsepower options. The Sentra was comparable, focusing more on economy than zest.
- Features: Feature-wise, the Corolla was competitive. Base models (CE) were spartan, similar to the Escort and Cavalier. Mid-range (VE) and top-tier (LE) Corollas offered power accessories, air conditioning, and optional ABS, mirroring offerings from the Civic and Sentra. None of these vehicles boasted significant "tech" by modern standards, largely sticking to basic radios and manual controls. The Civic often had a reputation for slightly better interior materials, while domestic rivals sometimes provided more amenities at a lower price point.
- Reliability: This is where the 1998 Corolla truly shined, often considered the gold standard alongside the Honda Civic. Both Japanese models consistently outperformed their domestic counterparts (Escort, Cavalier) and sometimes the Sentra in terms of long-term durability and fewer unscheduled repairs. Owners reported far fewer major mechanical failures with the Corolla than with the Escort or Cavalier, which were prone to various engine and transmission issues as they aged.
- Price: New, the Corolla was competitively priced with its Japanese rivals and slightly above some domestic options. However, its superior reliability translated into excellent resale value over time. On the used market today, a well-maintained Corolla often commands a premium over similarly aged Escorts or Cavaliers, which have largely depreciated to near-zero value due to their perceived lower reliability.
Recommended Alternatives:
If a 1998 Corolla isn't available, a 1998 Honda Civic is an excellent alternative, offering similar legendary reliability, good fuel economy, and often a slightly more enjoyable driving experience. A Nissan Sentra from the same era could also be considered for its economy, though its long-term reliability might not quite match the Corolla or Civic.
Final Verdict: Is the 1998 Toyota Corolla a Good Sedan?
The 1998 Toyota Corolla is an ideal vehicle for budget-conscious buyers, first-time drivers, students, and anyone prioritizing unwavering reliability and exceptionally low ownership costs above all else. It's a practical choice for daily commuting, offering dependable transportation without fuss or fanfare. Given its age, it's definitely worth buying as a used vehicle, provided a well-maintained example can be found.
When considering a purchase, focus on models with a clear service history, minimal rust (especially in the undercarriage and around wheel wells), and a functioning air conditioning system. While the LE trim offers more creature comforts like power windows and cruise control, even a basic CE model will deliver the core Corolla experience of reliability and economy. Avoid examples with significant rust or neglected maintenance, as even a Corolla can become a money pit if severely abused. If you need a no-frills, dependable, and cheap-to-run car, the 1998 Corolla remains a strong contender.
When considering a purchase, focus on models with a clear service history, minimal rust (especially in the undercarriage and around wheel wells), and a functioning air conditioning system. While the LE trim offers more creature comforts like power windows and cruise control, even a basic CE model will deliver the core Corolla experience of reliability and economy. Avoid examples with significant rust or neglected maintenance, as even a Corolla can become a money pit if severely abused. If you need a no-frills, dependable, and cheap-to-run car, the 1998 Corolla remains a strong contender.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.